Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 51 - Verse 13
Meaning
The verse "O thou that dwellest upon many waters, abundant in treasures, thine end is come, and the measure of thy covetousness" can be found in the book of Jeremiah in the Old Testament. This verse is a prophecy of judgment against the ancient city of Babylon. Babylon was known for its wealth and prosperity, boasting of its great riches and power. However, the verse warns that despite its abundance, Babylon's end is near due to its excessive greed and desire for more. The phrase "dwellest upon many waters" is symbolic of Babylon's strategic location on the Euphrates River, which allowed for trade and economic growth. The mention of covetousness highlights Babylon's moral corruption and unjust practices, leading to its impending downfall. This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of unchecked greed and serves as a warning to individuals and nations alike to avoid the pitfalls of materialism and selfishness.
Theological Overview
The verse "O thou that dwellest upon many waters, abundant in treasures, thine end is come, and the measure of thy covetousness" can be interpreted in a theological context as a message of warning against pride, materialism, and greed. The imagery of dwelling upon many waters and being abundant in treasures may symbolize worldly success and wealth, which can lead to a false sense of security and arrogance. The phrase "thine end is come" serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and the consequences of placing too much importance on material wealth. The mention of covetousness highlights the sin of desiring possessions or wealth that belong to others, which goes against the teachings of humility, generosity, and contentment found in many spiritual traditions. This verse can be seen as a cautionary tale against the dangers of valuing material wealth over spiritual wealth and the pitfalls of greed and selfishness.